Join this immersive journey through Dhankuta: A Unique Travel Experience that combines culture, tradition, and climate awareness. Experience the hidden festival of Mangshire or Wadangmet- a significant festival dedicated to deceased relatives and the celebration of the addition of new family members through birth by the Aathpahariya community. To celebrate this month-long festival, the families undertake a three-day journey to Barahakshetra to bathe in the Kokaha River, shave their heads and beards, and worship Baraha. This ritual marks the end of a year-long mourning period. On the fourth day, they return home, continuing the celebration with dance and music like Dhol, Maruni, and Dallo Naach, which can be observed while at Dhankuta.
“Responsible tourism in Dhankuta is being implemented through the HI-GRID Project, supported by the Australian Government and led by ICIMOD. This initiative is a collaborative effort between Dhankuta Municipality, Chhathar Jorpati Rural Municipality, Community Homestay Network, Smart Paani, and HUSADEC.”
Commence your journey from Kathmandu to Mulkot, where you can relax by the Sunkoshi River and savor local cuisine. Continue to Janakpur, a revered religious centre with temples like the Janaki Mandir. Here, you can delve into the cultural heritage through a Mithila painting session and a visit to the sacred Janaki Temple, followed by a traditional Mithila Thali dinner by Chef Santosh Shah.
Drive to Dhankuta to join the vibrant Mangshire Festival with the Aathpahariya community. Visit Hile and Cholung Park to see traditional Limbu houses and tea gardens and enjoy a cultural feast and orange picking at Sipting Community Homestay. A scenic hike from Chuliban to Khambela offers stunning views, houses of the indigenous Aatpahariya community, insights into the Aathpahariya way of life, and water-smart solutions implemented by Smart Paani. The locals have been actively involved in water-smart solutions like bio-sand filtration and rainwater harvesting systems, implemented by Smart Paani to ensure travellers do not burden the water-scarce areas.
We invite you to an unfrequented trail showcasing Nepal’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and innovative efforts to combat climate change. In collaboration with our partner organizations, Dhankuta Municipality, Chattar Jorpati Rural Municipality, HUSADEC, Smart Paani, and HIGRID - International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), we are building tourism ecosystem with the Aathpahariya communities by promoting responsible tourism that highlights both local traditions and environmental stewardship.
Your visit can make a significant difference. By engaging with local communities and adopting sustainable practices, you can gain a deeper understanding of climate action and make a positive impact on the environment and the communities you visit.
Additional Flight cost chargeable: Biratnagar to Kathmandu
Nepalese Guests: 9540 NPR
International Guests: 101 USD
Optional Activity:
Mohan Factory Visit: 1500 NPR/ 11 USD
Kachide Farm to Table: 1500 NPR/ 11 USD
Note: A minimum of six guests is required for the trip to operate.
